United States Petition for Green Card

The first step is to determine if you are eligible for a green card. If you are already in the United States, immigrants will adjust their status to a permanent resident to get a green card. If you are outside the United States, immigrants use the consular process to get their green card.

When Can You Apply for a Green Card

In general, there must be a visa available for you before you can apply for a green card. In some categories, visas are always available, while in others, there are a limited number. Priority dates are given to immigrants waiting in line to get an immigrant visa and determine when a visa becomes available. Further, most applications for a green card require that you go through a medical exam.

An affidavit of support is a form that a sponsor files on your behalf when you are applying for a green card or immigrant visa. It is required for most but not all categories of immigrants before they can become a permanent resident of the United States.